While an ODI series at the moment does not hold much significance, it might not generate interest from the wider cricketing world. Even hosts Sri Lanka will have their eyes on the shortest format as they aim to continue their dominance at home in 50-over cricket. However, that is not the case for England, as this is a must-win battle for them with the 2027 World Cup appearing at risk.
Why England Needs to Win ODIs vs Sri Lanka
England have been in a horror run of form in ODI Cricket post their 2019 World Cup victory. After hardly playing the format for three years, they had a nightmare title defence in the 2023 edition in India, where they finished seventh in the table with just three wins in nine matches.
Their troubles continued as they were whitewashed by India 3-0 just days before finishing last in their Champions Trophy group after losing three games to Australia, Afghanistan, and South Africa.
This means that England is currently ranked number eight in the ICC ODI rankings and faces the risk of missing out on automatic qualification for the 2027 World Cup.
Why England’s 2027 World Cup Hopes Are At Risk
Only eight teams will get automatic qualification for the 2027 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia in October-November next year. These slots will go to the teams that ranked in the top eight of the ICC ODI rankings on March 31st 2027 excluding the hosts.
ICC ODI Rankings As Things Stand
While South Africa and Zimbabwe have secured automatic qualification as hosts, the eight teams that are ranked best after them will get the spots. As things stands, South Africa is sixth, and Zimbabwe is 11th. This means that if the status quo remains that the 9th-place team will also qualify. Hence, England still has a margin of error, but not much. They are just 10 points ahead of 10th-place Bangladesh and nine points ahead of ninth-place West Indies. If both teams manage to get ahead of England, Brook’s men will fall out of the qualification positions.
England sent a first-choice team to New Zealand just days before the Ashes for an ODI series to ensure their rankings do not suffer. However, the move did not pay dividends as they lost the series 3-0.
What Happens If Teams Do Not Get Automatic Qualification?
The teams that do not qualify by the rankings will have to play in the qualification event. While the dates are yet to be announced, it will take place between April and September in 2027. As the West Indies found out in 2023, things can get tricky in the tournament.
However, the 2027 World Cup is a 14-team event with four slots up for grabs. In 2023, the mega event was played by 10 teams, and only two teams could qualify from the qualification event.